Maple Granola

I bought this book called Whole Grain Baking by King Arthur Flour and it has by far the best whole grain recipes that I have tasted. So I tried making this granola today from the book and had to share it. I made a double batch and am tempted to make another since it keeps really well and I can say without a question this will be breakfast for me!

7 c. old fashioned rolled oats
1 c. flaked coconut
1 c. wheat germ
1 c. sliced almonds
1 c. pecans or walnuts chopped (I like pecans best)
1 c. sunflower seeds
1/2 t. salt
1 c. maple syrup
3/4 c olive oil
1 T vanilla extract (I also add 1/2 t almond flavoring)
1 c. raisins, cranberries, and dried apricots

mix the oats, coconut, wheat germ, nuts, seeds, salt in a large bowl. in a separate bowl combine the syrup, oil, and flavorings. pour over the dry and mix well. bake in the over at 275 degrees for 2 hours. stirring after 1 hour. I lined 2 baking sheets with parchment paper for easier clean-up. let cool completely and add dried fruit. store in an air-tight container at room temp.

I made mine without the seeds, raisins, cranberries, and apricots and instead I did add 1 cup dried blueberries which I thought turned out wonderful!
goodluck and enjoy!